Looking at buying either one of below:
1) '99 ML430 72K mls. Very clean. Must travel far to get it. $12.5K on Ebay.
2) '01 ML320 89K mls. Very clean. Locally owned since new. $12.5K Local indy dealer.
3) '01 ML430 Sport pkg. & Skyview roof 99K mls. Must travel far to get it. $12.5K on Ebay.

Other than travel (cost + time) here are my concerns:
1) '99 model year. Usually it takes MB the second generation to get it right, especially on a brand new model. The engine should be OK I imagine. No experience with W163 at all.
2) Will test drive it on monday. No experience with W163 at all.
3) Car looks great! I love the sport pkg, and the skyview roof. But concerned about rust, roof leaks, air suspension? and the other usual MB sport pkg options and again no experience with W163 at all.

I need advice, prices being equal, and flights to pick them up is free.
What is there to really look for?
Is there a way to test the drive train by driving?
And is one better than the other as far as model year and engine combination.
Much appreciated.

__________________
Regards

Mino Erhan Dallas, TX
'97 SL500 40th A.E.
'97 S320
'01 ML320
'85 Peugeot 505 SW
'07 BMW R1200RT
'74 Suzuki GT750